Officials Break Ground on Burkhart Center for Autism

The new facility will house the successful program that is devoted to autism education
and research.

Written by Jaryn Jones

The project will create a two-story autism education and research facility that includes
28,458 square feet of space for clinical facilities.

Texas Tech officials today (Aug. 24) broke ground on the new Burkhart Center for Autism
Education and Research, showcasing the impressive success the program has worked for
since its establishment.

The project will create a two-story autism education and research facility that includes
28,458 square feet of space for clinical facilities including the Burkhart Transition Academy, Teacher Preparation Academy and outreach program.

“The Burkhart Center has been an outstanding asset to research at Texas Tech,” said
Kent Hance, chancellor of the Texas Tech University System. “We are proud to have a center devoted
to autism education and excited about the opportunities the new facility will offer.”

The center will be located at 2908 18th Street, near Boston Avenue, and will house
research and support space, class laboratories, academic offices and a nationally
branded café. It will also feature an outdoor play area, public art and landscape
enhancements.

Established in 2005, the Burkhart Center for Autism Education and Research is named
for Jim and Jere Lynn Burkhart who have made significant contributions to the establishment
and mission of the center.

“The new facility will allow us to continue our mission of improving the quality of
life for those affected by autism while serving the ongoing need for research and
instruction,” said Jim Burkhart. “We are thrilled with the growth of the program over
the years and look forward to even greater accomplishments in the future.”

Jim and Jere Lynn Burkhart have made significant contributions to the establishment
of the center.

The Burkhart Center’s primary objectives are to provide support and services for individuals
with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and their families, train regular and special
education teachers, and conduct applied research that will increase the quality of
life of those affected by ASD. The center also provides a variety of resources in
the areas of adult transitions, technical assistance and community outreach services.

Research at the center covers three major aspects: developing strategies for the preparation
of teachers to meet the needs of students, examining ways to develop parent support
networks and preparing individuals with autism as they transition from school to adult
services.

The Transition Academy, the center’s flagship program, is home to about 15 teenagers and young adults who
have an autism spectrum disorder. They come to campus Monday through Friday to learn
job and life skills, including how to live independently, and many have jobs through
partnerships with campus and community organization.

The Burkhart Center is named for Jim and Jere Lynn Burkhart in honor of their grandson
Collin.